THAT’S DEBATABLE:

The state recently said Newport Beach is not complying with laws mandating affordable housing.

Do you think the city is doing enough to address the need and what more do you think the city should do to address the issue?

This is an example of the state legislature mandating policies that ignore the free market and have negative unintended consequences. Concentrated low-income housing is not the answer. If anything, we need widely dispersed subsidized rental units and senior housing. Whatever is provided, must be in harmony with surrounding neighborhoods.

Keith Curry

District 7 Councilman

Newport Beach is a narrow band of premium real estate. There is more affordable housing within a short distance to help meet regional housing need.

The city’s maximized sites for affordable housing by utilizing federal community grant land write-down funds, density bonuses and tax credits.

The senior housing development at Lower Bayview is an example of a successful affordable housing project. The state says we’re out of compliance because they haven’t certified our 2006 Housing Element yet. Most certified elements in Orange County date from 2000-2001, and Newport Beach is ahead of the curve.

Leslie Daigle

District 4 Councilwoman

We have a General Plan Housing Element in conformance to state law. An update is awaiting certification by the state. It provides affordable housing in accordance with regional allocations and city goals. Housing will be provided for a range of income levels and spread around the city and not concentrated in any one area. Affordable housing is a challenge in an area with high housing costs. Newport Beach is making its best effort.

Edward Selich

Mayor

Did not respond

Michael F. Henn

District 1 Councilman

Did not respond

Steve Rosansky

District 2 Councilman

Did not respond

Don Webb

District 3 Councilman

Did not respond

Nancy Gardner

District 6 Councilwoman